118 Fascinating Facts About Greece – Written by a Local

Learning some facts about Greece can be useful. Not only does this information make for interesting common knowledge, but it can also be very useful if you are planning a trip to this beautiful Mediterranean country.

118 Wonderful Facts About Greece

Greece Facts: Patitiri, Alonissos
Greece Facts: Patitiri, Alonissos

86 weird, wonderful, and fascinating facts about Greece are discussed herein. They have been organised by category.

Facts about Greek Culture 

Facts About Greece: Skopelos, Northern Sporades
Facts About Greece: Skopelos, Northern Sporades

Greece has a very unique culture. The way of life here is steeped in tradition and the Orthodox faith. Some interesting facts about Greece and Greek culture are detailed below. 

Thessaloniki International Film Festival takes place every year 

The Thessaloniki International Film Festival takes place every November in Greece’s second city. It might not quite be Cannes but is growing precedence every year and is on track to become the Southern European alternative. 

Spitting is supposed to bring good fortune 

Spitting is considered to be good luck in Greek culture. This happens a lot at weddings. If people don’t physically spit, they at least make the “ftou ftou ftou” sound.

The Bride and Groom will often leave the church to find themselves faced with a tsunami of saliva! It is also said that spitting on a newborn baby will protect them from harm. 

There are more than 10,000 traditional Greek dances 

The most well-known Greek dance is probably Zorbas. However, there are actually more than 10,000 different Greek dances! Each region, island, or town in Greece will have its own special regional dance. 

It is possible to take a Greek dancing class during your Greece itinerary. Many places in Athens, Crete, and other popular tourist destinations offer such lessons.

You can also visit a bouzoukia. This is a popular live music venue where locals sing and dance on tables as traditional songs are performed. 

Names are written on the bride’s shoes at weddings 

At a Greek wedding, it is customary for the Bride to write the names of her single friends on the bottom of her shoe. Whoever’s name remains on the shoe after the others have worn off is said to be the next person to get married! 

Your “Name Day” is more important than your birthday

Greeks essentially have two birthdays – their name day, and their birthday. For example, the name day for people named Giorgos takes place on the 23rd of April, so all people named Giorgos will celebrate this day. 

It is typical to receive gifts and money from your parents and relatives on your name day. Most Greeks go out and celebrate their name days with their friends. However, if it is your special day, it is your turn to pay! 

Greeks eat on a Mediterranean schedule 

Greeks tend to eat their lunches and dinners much later in the day than what you may be accustomed to if you are from Western Europe, the UK, or the USA. Greek lunch time is usually around 3 or 3.30 pm.

Dinner time can be anywhere between 8 pm and 11 pm depending on personal preference and schedule. You don’t have to worry if you are used to eating earlier in the day though.

Most Athens restaurants are open throughout the day and can cater to all eating schedules. Greeks are used to seeing foreign tourists have their lunch at midday or their dinner at 5 or 6 pm.

People do not trust the police

Most Greeks have a very low level of trust for the Hellenic police and they are renowned for their corruption and ineptitude. There are countless reports of excessive, unnecessary force being used by the police, human rights abuses, and cover-ups.

The extent of this is so bad that people will not go to the police to report issues as they do not believe that they will be helped or believed. On the 6th December 2008, a teenage boy named Alexandros Grigoropoulos was shot and killed by a Greek Police Officer in Exarchia, Athens.

Every year, there are protests and riots on the anniversary of his death. During this time, it is best to avoid the center of Athens.  

Oxi day is a big deal

Oxi Day is celebrated in Greece, Cyprus, and Greek diaspora communities on the 28th of October every year. This was the day that the Greeks said no (oxi) to the Italians when they asked to allow the Italian army and Nazi Germans into the country.

Following this, hundreds of locals took to the streets of Athens to shout no. This marked Greece’s entrance into the war against the Nazis.

Socrates was known for being an eccentric 

Socrates is recognised for being one of the most important Greek Philosophers in Ancient Greece. However, at the time, he was regarded as something of an oddity. 

He had something of a ghastly appearance and would wander around town with bare feet. Some sculptures depict his unfortunate presentation and even Plato references this in his works.

Greece is locally known as “Hellas” 

Greece Facts: Greece is known as “Hellas” or “The Hellenic Republic”

Greek people don’t actually refer to their country as Greece but as Hellas. The name Greece actually stems from the Latin word “Graecia”. This was the name of the Greek people that the Romans conquered when they extended their empire into Greece.

Greeks are some of the biggest coffee drinkers in the world

Greek coffee culture is a huge part of living in Greece. Coffee shops occupy practically every single street corner in towns and cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. 

“Ellinikos Kafe” is traditional Greek coffee. This is a strong, hot, bitter beverage that is essentially the same as Turkish or Arabic coffee. 

Most modern Greeks enjoy drinking their coffee iced or “Freddo”. Freddo coffee is definitely worth a try while you are in Greece. This is created by pouring fresh espresso over ice and then adding sugar and/or milk as desired.

Zeus was born in Crete

According to mythology, Zeus, the most important of the Greek Gods, was born in Crete. Cretans are very proud of this aspect of their heritage.

Zeus was the son of Cronus and Rhea. Two caves high in the Cretan mountains both claim that they were the birthplace of Zeus. Namely, Ideon Cave on Mount Ida and Dikteon Cave in south-central Crete. 

Xenia explains the Greek people’s hospitable nature 

Xenia is an ancient Greek rule that teaches that hospitality is sacred. The Ancient Greeks believed that Zeus wanted them to be friendly to those that visited and to make them feel welcome. 

“Xenia” means guest-friendship. This word still exists in Greek people’s vocabulary today and can be used to explain their warm nature to tourists. 

The patron saints of Greece are beloved elsewhere too

Greece shares the same Patron Saints as Scotland and England. St George and St Andrew are Patron Saints of Greece. 

Greece sees over 30 million tourists a year

Greece is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world
Greece is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world

More than 35 million tourists flocked to Greece in 2018 alone. This makes Greece one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. 

The tourism industry makes up around 25% of the Greek economy. All things considered though, it is not difficult to find beautiful places to travel off the beaten path in Greece. 

Most Greeks are Orthodox 

Facts about Greece
Facts about Greece

98% of Greeks follow the Greek Orthodox faith. The country’s culture has strong roots in the Orthodox religion.

There are many Orthodox celebrations that take place throughout the year that can be very interesting for tourists to witness. The 15th August sees the celebration of the Ascension of the Virgin Mary.

On this date, many Greeks embark on a pilgrimage route to local monasteries or participate in village festivals. Proussos Monastery is an important pilgrimage place in Central Greece.

Christmas and Easter are two of the most important holidays in the Greek annual calendar. The latter sees parades and firework celebrations take place across the country. 

Areopagus Hill was home to the court of Ancient Greece

There are eight main hills in Athens including Lycabettus and Filopappou. One of the lesser-known hills here is Areopagus, also known as ¨the hill of Ares¨. 

Today, the hill is little more than a rocky plateau just off Theorias promenade. However, in Ancient Greece, murder, treason, and corruption trials were heard here.

The site is named after the Greek God Ares because, according to mythology, Ares was tried by the council of the gods here for the murder of Halirrhothios, son of Poseidon. If you spend a day in Athens today, climbing Areopagus Hill is one of the best free things you can do in the Greek capital.

From the top, you have incredible views of the Acropolis. The Parthenon looks so close from up here that it almost feels like you can reach out and touch it. 

Just be sure to wear supportive shoes. The terrain here is rocky, slippy and tricky to climb. 

Greeks are very patriotic 

You will find that almost every Greek person that you meet is very patriotic and proud of their Greek heritage. Greek flags are proudly displayed outside of restaurants and businesses.

This is especially the case on special occasions such as Oxi Day. Greeks are very willing and happy to help you discover the best of their country and heritage. 

Greece has only been independent since 1821

Facts about Greece
Facts about Greece

The Greeks struggled under the rule of the Turkish until 1821. This can be used to explain the somewhat strained relationship between the two countries today. 

Greek Independence Day is celebrated every year on the 25th of March. This celebration is held in honour of the start of the Greek revolution and fight for independence on March 25th 1821. 

Plate smashing is not really a “thing” 

Greek people are often shown to be smashing plates and shouting “oppa” in movies. However, this isn’t really a ‘thing’ in Greek culture anymore.

You may find a few tourist restaurants in Thissio and Plaka in Athens that do this. However, it’s not commonplace.  

Athens was the first European capital of culture 

Athens was the first European Cultural Capital in 1985. The ¨European Cultural Capital¨ is a title that is awarded to a different European city every year. 
During that year, the designated capital is supposed to organise a series of events highlighting the country’s culture and heritage. Kaunas, Matera, Porto, and Novi Sad in Serbia are a few other countries that have been the European cultural capital.

The colour blue wards off evil 

The colour blue is said to protect against evil in Greek culture. Today, many Greeks still wear blue and turquoise evil eye pendants.

Evil eye crystals and pendants are known locally as “mati”. They can be purchased at Monastiraki market and make nice souvenirs from your trip to Greece.

Greeks are very superstitious 

Greece Facts: Kastoria, Northern Greece
Greece Facts: Kastoria, Northern Greece

Greek people are a superstitious bunch. This is especially true of the older generations of Greeks and Greek “yiayias” (grandmothers). 

There are many quirky superstitions that are believed locally. One is that you should never hand someone a knife.

If you do, it is believed that you will get into a fight with them. If you are helping someone cook a Greek Sunday feast and you need to pass them a knife, you should place the knife down on a table and wait for them to pick it up. 

The Greek flag is displayed with pride 

Parga, Greece

The Greek flag is known as Galanólefki in Greek. This means “the blue and white”.

It has nine alternating horizontal stripes of blue (5) and white (4). This flag has been used since 1822.  

The monarchy was abolished in 1973 

Greece was officially renamed “The Hellenic Republic” after the Monarchy was abolished in 1973.

The population had voted for this in a referendum and the outcome was enforced by Prime Minister, Konstantinos Karamanlis. Constantine II of Greece was the last Greek Monarch. 

The sunshine capital of Europe 

Greece sees approximately 250 days of sunshine a year. The perfect, warm Mediterranean climate is one of the reasons why so many millions of people flock to Greece every year. 

Greece sees more sunshine than any other country in Europe. It is also one of the sunniest countries in the world.  

Greeks are very close to their families 

Strong familial bonds are an important part of being Greek. Many Greeks will live with their parents until well into their thirties or until they get married. This is, in part due to the economic situation and the cost of living. 

Greece is home to the largest Monastic communities in Europe 

Parga, Greece

Mount Athos in Halkidiki and Meteora in Central Greece are the two largest Monastic communities in Europe. The former is classed as an autonomous region within the Hellenic Republic and is home to more than 20 monasteries. 

Female travellers are not permitted to visit Mount Athos. However, it is possible to take a boat tour from Halkidiki and sail around the Athos peninsula.

Facts About Greek Food 

Greece Facts: Greek food is a huge part of the culture
Greece Facts: Greek food is a huge part of the culture

Sampling Greek cuisine is as much a part of a trip to Greece as the seeing of the sights. Some notable facts about Greek food are discussed here. 

Greeks are the biggest consumers of olive oil in the world 

It is estimated that the average Greek consumes almost 18kg of olive oil a year. Olive oil is used generously in cooking.

It is often lathered over salads and vegetable dishes. Greece is also the second-biggest producer of olive oil – second only to Spain. 

Ouzo is the national drink of Greece 

There are several different types of Greek alcohol. Tsipouro, raki, and rakomelo are well-known beverages. The most commonly enjoyed alcoholic drink in Greece is ouzo. 

Ouzo is a strong, anise-flavoured liqueur. It is usually enjoyed neat and poured over ice. Greeks will often order carafes of ouzo for the table while they are out having dinner with friends. 

The average Greek consumes 12kg of feta a year 

Feta cheese is the quintessential Greek side dish. Most Greek people will always have a slab of fresh feta sprinkled with oregano at the table when they have dinner. This is enjoyed whether they are at home or out at a taverna. 

It’s customary to receive a freebie after a meal

You will usually receive a free dessert or an aperitif after you have dinner out in Greece. A common dessert is “spoon sweets”. This is Greek yogurt served with preserved fruits. 

At Easter, an entire lamb is roasted on a spit 

Greeks enjoy a huge feast with all the family at Easter. The main dish is an entire lamb that is slow-roasted on a spit. 

Retsina is a unique Greek beverage

Retsina is a unique, Greek resinated wine that is worth trying while in Greece. This beverage has been created and enjoyed by the Greeks for more than 2,000 years! 

It is possible to buy Retsina wine in both white and rose forms. The wine has a very distinct taste as it is made with pine resin. You can find retsina in bars and tavernas all over the country. 

Facts about Greece: Meze is the Greek answer to tapas
Facts about Greece: Meze is the Greek answer to tapas

Mezedopolio places are a popular lunch and dinner choice in Greece. These are restaurants that specialise in “small plates”. Meze culture can be compared to Spanish tapas. 

Mastiha is used to create unique cocktails

Mastiha or “Mastic” is a chewy substance that is native to Greece. It comes exclusively from the Mastic trees on Chios island.

This is often used as natural chewing gum. Sometimes, it is added to cocktails for flavouring.  

Street food is a huge part of Greek food culture 

Greek street food delicacies such as gyros and souvlaki are popular convenience snacks for people on vacation in Greece. These types of street food dishes are also very popular among Greeks.

Getting souvlaki at the end of the night is customary for a night out in Athens. Efood and Wolt are the Greek answer to Uber Eats. 

Oinomelo and Rakomelo are two very popular beverages that are enjoyed during the winter months in Greece. Oinomelo is a warm wine that is infused with honey.

This is essentially the Greek answer to mulled wine. Rakomelo is created by combining raki with honey. Many bars and tavernas make these beverages themselves.

There are many vegetarian and vegan-friendly Greek dishes 

Greece is globally-renowned for being a meat lover’s paradise. It is actually easier than you may think to survive in Greece on a vegan or vegetarian diet

There are many flavourful dishes that are easy to find in tavernas and restaurants around the country. Fasolakia consists of delicious braised green beans marinated in tomato, onion, and garlic. Keftedes are vegetable fritters, usually prepared with tomatoes. 

Different regions of Greece have different specialty dishes

There are many traditional dishes that can be found all over Greece. However, there are also those that are specific to a particular region.

For example, beef sofrito is a dish that originated in Corfu (Kerkyra). It is prepared by cooking a tender veal steak in garlic, red wine, and herbs.

Greek cheese is more than just feta

Any mention of Greek cheese immediately conjures up images of tasty, crumbly feta. However, Greece is also home to several other kinds of cheese that are very worthy of your time.

Metsovone cheese is a mouthwatering smoked cheese that originates from the village of Metsovo in the Pindus Mountains. Manouri cheese is also to die for.

The cheese has a soft texture that is in some ways comparable to mozzarella. It is a mixed milk-whey cheese made from goat or sheep milk as a by-product following the production of feta

Facts about life in Greece 

Are you considering moving to Greece? These facts about Greece from a resident perspective will help you understand how some things work in the Hellenic Republic. 

Greeks eat a special cake for New Year’s Day

Facts about Greece: Greeks eat a special cake for New Year's Day
Facts about Greece: Greeks eat a special cake for New Year’s Day

Greeks enjoy a vasilopita cake to celebrate the New Year. This sweet sponge cake is prepared with lemon juice and almonds. 

A coin is wrapped and placed inside the cake. Whoever is able to find the coin is said to have good fortune for the year ahead. 

Most of New Year’s Eve is spent with family 

New Year’s Eve is synonymous with the idea of wild parties and countdowns around the globe. In Greece, a large portion of the evening is spent with family. 

Greeks will have a late-night feast with their parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and extended family. They will celebrate the turn of the New Year with their family before heading out to bars, clubs, and parties with friends. 

You could divorce on the grounds of leprosy until 1983

Divorce after marriage is not commonplace in Greece. However, leprosy was an acceptable reason to file for divorce in Greece until 1983. 

Most shops still have “siestas” 

Glossa, Skopelos

Shops and businesses in Greece have very different opening times than in western countries. Many places are open from 8 am until 8 pm.

It is common for independent stores to have a break or “siesta” between the hours of 3 and 5 pm. Small islands like Skopelos and Alonissos practically become ghost towns at this time.

Skopelos town was designated a place of outstanding beauty 

Skopelos town is the capital of Skopelos island. Like most Greek island capitals, its is also known as the ¨Chora¨. 

In 1978, it was recognised as a settlement of ¨outstanding beauty¨ by the then Prime Minister of Greece. When you visit, you will find that it is not hard to see why.

Clubs and bars are a popular part of nightlife in Greece just like anywhere else in the world. In Greece, bouzouki halls are also very popular. 

Large bouzouki halls are huge, club-type establishments such as Posidonio in Athens. These places often host famous Greek singers.

Smaller bouzouki bars are also popular in neighbourhoods such as Plaka and Pagrati. Here, people eat meze dishes and share food with friends as live folk music plays out. 

Tipping is not common 

Evritania, Central Greece
Evritania, Central Greece

Tipping is not expected in Greece in the same way it is in other countries. There is no suggested percentage for you to tip. Tipping someone 50 cents or a euro when you go out for coffee, order food delivery, or dine at a restaurant is always appreciated. 

Farmers’ markets are a favourite place to shop 

“Laiki Agora” are Greek farmer’s markets. Practically every Greek neighbourhood has a farmer’s market that is held at least once a week on a specific day. 

Laiki are a great place to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables. The prices and quality are typically better than at the supermarket. 

You could buy antibiotics over the counter until September 2020 

Antibiotics such as Amoxicillin could be purchased over the counter in Greece up until September 2020. Other medications that typically require a prescription can be purchased more easily here. For instance, antidepressants. 

You should always be cautious about what meds you take. However, this can be handy if you need to take prescription meds while travelling. 

Tax evasion is huge 

It is estimated that only one in six Greeks pay their taxes. Shops and businesses will often try and ask you to pay the bill in cash so that they do not have to declare that income. 

Greek Politicians have defined tax evasion as being the Greek national sport. The unfortunate reality is that taxes are often very high in Greece, and many people struggle financially. This issue is not likely to go away any time soon. 

Kain, Pagrati

A new anti-smoking bill was enforced in Greece in January 2020. Prior to that, it was extremely common to go into a bar or coffee shop in Athens and find that everybody was smoking inside. Even now, the rules are not always followed in rural areas…

Cremation was illegal until recently 

The Greek Orthodox Church forbids cremation. As a result, the vast majority of Greeks are buried after they pass away.

Public crematoriums were legalised in Greece in 2016. However, the first such place did not open until 2019. 

Bodies don’t stay buried forever 

One of the slightly more gruesome facts about Greece is that people don’t stay buried forever. Greeks are buried after they pass away.

However, due to a lack of space in Greek cemeteries, they are dug up again several years later. The bones are then placed in an ossuary. 

Greece has the worst gender equality in Europe 

A 2019 study by EIGE found that Greece has the worst gender equality in Europe. Greece scored just 51.2 points out of a possible 100.

That is compared to 72.2 in the UK. Sweden scored highest with a score of 83.6.

Easter is just as important as Christmas 

Orthodox Easter takes place a week after Christian and Catholic Easter. This occasion is just as important as Christmas in Greek culture. 

During Easter, many Greek cities become ghost towns as locals flock en masse to their family’s villages to celebrate with loved ones. Holy Saturday sees people participate in a candlelit midnight procession and greet others with “Christos Anesti” (Christ is risen). 

Quiet, please 

Quiet hours are in place in residential areas in Greece. Your apartment building may have specific time slots where you are expected to keep the noise down.

For example, “siesta” hours may be between 3 and 5. Quiet hours may also be after 10 pm. 

Toilet paper cannot be flushed

Plumbing systems in Greece are still not as sophisticated as in other European countries. You generally cannot flush toilet paper down the toilet.

This is especially the case in traditional villages and offbeat Greek islands. Many hotels and Athens restaurant bathrooms will have a notice informing you of this.

Airbnb has had a huge impact on the Greek economy 

The existence of Airbnb has had a significant impact on the Greek economy. It is estimated that in 2016 alone, the rental giant generated $1.4 billion in Greece

Not everybody is thrilled about Airbnb’s prominence in Greece. The platform has caused rent prices across Athens, Thessaloniki, and other Greek cities to soar. Airbnb is one reason for the rising cost of living in Athens.

Most shops close on Sundays 

Greece is still a very spiritual and religious country. Most stores are closed on Sundays.

This even includes gas stations, supermarkets, and large branch stores in Athens city centre. You will still find some convenience stores and independent supermarkets that are open. 

Facts About Athens, Greece 

Facts About Athens, Greece
Facts About Athens, Greece

The Evzones are known for their quirky attire

The Evzones are an elite group of Athenian guards. You can find them guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier outside the Greek Parliament building in Athens’ Syntagma square

These soldiers wear very unique, vibrant uniforms. Evzones wear farion hats – a red cap with a long black tassel. This is paired with an embroidered waistcoat (fermeli), a blue and white kilt-like garment (foustanella), and shoes that have pom poms affixed to them (tsarouchia). 

There is a museum inside Syntagma Metro Station 

There is a small, free museum housed in Syntagma metro station. When the station was being built, workers found a plethora of interesting artifacts in the area. 

This small museum is known as ¨the Syntagma Metro Archeological Collection¨. It is worth a quick visit while waiting for your train. 

Flat shoes only 

Several archaeological sites in Athens (including the Acropolis) have signs outside of them that ban high heels and stilettos. This is for two reasons.

Firstly, stiletto heels can damage ancient stone structures and footpaths. Secondly, some of these sites are also slippery, and wearing heels can be dangerous. Be sure to pack your comfortable hiking shoes for your daytime exploration during your Athens travel itinerary

Socrates’ prison in Athens was not actually his prison 

Facts about Greece
Facts about Greece

If you spend one or two days in Athens, you will see ¨ Socrates’ prison¨ marked on the map in the city’s historical centre. This old, mysterious-looking cave can be found in the foothills of Filopappou Hill. 

For years, it was believed that this was Socrates’ prison and the place where he eventually took his own life. There are two rooms within the cave complex so it makes sense to think that someone could live there. 

Unfortunately, this theory was later disproved. However, interestingly, the Greeks stored many artifacts and treasures from the Acropolis here during World War II to protect them from the Nazis. 

Democracy was invented at the Pnyx 

Facts about Greece
Facts about Greece

The Pnyx is a smaller hill within the Filopappou hill park area. From here, you have incredible views of the Acropolis and this is a great place to stop for photos. 

Democracy was actually invented here and this was the official meeting place of the Athenian democratic assembly (ekklesia). Notable Ancient Greek Orators would come here to give important speeches. 

Roman Emperor Hadrian was a true Grecophile! 

Facts about Greece
Facts about Greece

Roman Emperor Hadrian (76 AD – 138 AD) was one of just three Roman Emperors who were recognised as ¨good¨. He had a passion for all things Greek. 

Hadrian oversaw the construction of many notable sites in Athens. Namely, Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrianic Aqueduct, and the Parthenon. 

Hadrian’s Arch was a gift to the Emperor from the people of Athens.  

Lord Byron’s poem has a creepy backstory 

One of the most famous poems and quotes about Greece is one written by the English poet Lord Byron. In it, he says ¨Maid of Athens, ere we part, Give, oh, give me back my heart!¨ 

The poem was supposedly written in dedication to the daughter of the landlady whom he rented a house from in Psiri, Athens. At the time, the object of his affection was only 13 years old! 

Greek gangsters used to rule the streets of Psiri 

Modern-day Psiri in Athens is known for its vibrant street art, eclectic bars, and vintage stores. Historically though, this was an area synonymous with organised crime. 

The koutsavakides, the mortides, and the trabouks were criminal gangs that would hang out here. You would not want to encounter them on a Friday night and they were known to stir trouble with anyone who crossed their path! 

They wore very specific clothing – striped trousers, a black suit jacket, a belt to conceal weapons, and a hat. They terrorised the people of Athens for centuries until Greek Police Chief Dimitrios Bayraktaris drove them out in the late 19th century. 

The Temple of Hephaestus was incorrectly identified 

Facts about Greece

The Temple of Hephaestus is a grand Doric temple situated on an elevated mezzanine in the heart of the Athens Agora complex. It was constructed in 415 BC, not long before the Parthenon. 

The temple is dedicated to Gods Hephaestus and Athena Ergane. However, when it was first discovered, it was wrongly believed to be dedicated to Theseus, son of Poseidon. 

So, the surrounding area was named Thissio. When the truth was discovered, it was too late to change the name of the neighbourhood.  

40% of Greeks Live in Athens 

Greece has a population of 11 million people. 40% of this population lives in Athens. That’s almost 4.5 million residents in the Greek capital. 

Greece’s population is largely homogeneous. 98% of people residing in the country are native Greeks.  

The Athenian Riviera is Greece’s Cote d’Azur 

Athens may seem like a chaotic, congested city at first. However, there are idyllic beaches and beautiful coastal areas just 30 minutes from the city centre.

The upscale Athens Riviera is Greece’s very own Cote d’Azur. This region has captured the hearts of many notable people – including Sofia Loren, Brigette Bardot, and Frank Sinatra. Vouliagmeni is a stunning coastal town that is very worthy of your time.

The Acropolis almost became a seventh wonder of the world 

The Acropolis, Athens
The Acropolis, Athens

The “New” seven wonders of the world were announced in 2007. The Acropolis in Athens did not make the final cut. However, it was a finalist in the discussion.  

The Parthenon Marbles are still in the UK 

The New Acropolis Museum in Athens only contains replicas of the Parthenon’s marbles. The originals are still held in the British Museum in London. 

Lord Elgin took them to the UK in 1812. This was an action that caused a lot of controversy and tension between the two countries.

The matter of the Parthenon marbles is an upsetting topic for many Greeks. Many have petitioned to have the marbles returned.

“Antiparochi” explains Athens’ higgledy-piggledy layout 

Athens is well-known for its higgledy-piggledy layout, and its ramshackle streets. The streets of Athens once boasted sprawling neoclassical mansions and magnificent architecture.

In the 1950s, “antiparochi” emerged. Residents were permitted to knock down neoclassical buildings and rebuild apartment complexes in their place in order to solve the Athens housing crisis. 

No real regulations were set, and construction happened fast. There was no city planning. This mishmash of structures led to the quirky-looking Athens that exists today. 

Athens is the oldest capital city in Europe 

Athens is Europe’s oldest capital. It is also one of the oldest cities in the world. The city was founded around 3000 BCE. 

Plaka is Athens’ oldest neighbourhood 

Plaka, Athens has a history that dates back over 3000 years. This was the “Turkish district” during the days of the Ottoman Empire. Several mosques and Islamic structures from this period still exist today. 

Athens is filled with archaeological museums 

Athens is a history buff’s dream. The Greek capital boasts 17 Foreign Archaeological institutes. This is in addition to all of the city’s outdoor ruins, and more than 100 museums. 

Museums and historical sites are free on certain days 

There are several days throughout the year when admission to certain ruins and museums is free. These are listed below:

  • 6 March (Melina Mercouri Day)
  • 18 April (International Monument Day)
  • 18 May (International Museum Day)
  • The last weekend of September (European Days of Cultural Heritage)
  • October 28th (Oxi Day)
  • Every first Sunday of the month, from November 1st to March 31st annually.

The Goddess Athena is the protector of Athens 

There is a well-known story in Greek mythology that discusses how the Greek God Poseidon and the Goddess Athena fought to be awarded the title of the God of Athens.

The two Gods held a competition. The local people then chose who they wanted to be their ruling God. 

The Goddess Athena gave the citizens of Athens the gift of an olive tree to represent prosperity. Poseidon struck a rock with his trident and caused it to create a fountain of salt water – representing the sea. 

The people voted for the Goddess Athena to be the Protector of the city. There is a crack in the ground outside of the Erechtheion at the Acropolis which is apparently where Poseidon struck his trident. 

Facts About Greece and the Mainland 

Mainland Greece is grossly underrated and often overlooked. Travelling here is just as magical as visiting the islands.

It is easy to travel off the beaten path in Greece

Greece may see more than 23 million tourists every year. However, most international travellers seem to flock to the same few places.

Areas such as the rugged Peloponnese and Northern Greece often escape the eyes of most adventurers. There are also dozens of beautiful islands in the Cyclades that have a fraction of the crowds seen at Santorini or Mykonos. 

Greece has 18 UNESCO World Heritage sites

Greece is steeped in history – from Alexander the Great to the Greek Philosophers. It is hard to find an area of Greece that is not filled with archaeological sites and strong links to Greek mythology.

There are currently 18 UNESCO sites in Greece. Famous Greek landmarks are scattered throughout the country.

The Varvakios Agora is the oldest market in Athens 

The Varvakios Agora (Athens Central Market)dates back to 1886. It is the Greek capital’s oldest and largest covered market. 

Before the market was created, vendors would sell produce from makeshift stores scattered around the Roman Agora. Today, more than 3,000 people shop at the market every day.  

The White Tower of Thessaloniki has a dark past 

Visiting the White Tower is one of the best things to do in Thessaloniki. Today, the 15th-century tower contains a small exhibition that tells you the history of Thessaloniki through the ages. 

From the top, you can enjoy a spectacular view across the city and the Thermaic Gulf. During the Ottoman rule, various tortures and executions took place in the White Tower. 

It was used as a garrison and then a prison. It was often referred to as ¨the Tower of Blood¨ because of all of the dark events that would happen inside. 

Plants were imported to create the National Gardens 

The National Gardens in central Athens are one of Athens’s best-known landmarks. Queen Amalia, the first Queen of Greece, requested for them to be created in the 19th century.

They were designed by German Agronomist Friedrich Schmidt. He imported more than 500 species of plants and flowers to create them.  

There were once Acropolises in almost every city 

The Acropolis in Athens may well be the only Acropolis that you have heard of. Centuries ago though, there were Acropolises in every city in Athens.

Most of these sites were built for defensive purposes. The Acropolis in Athens, however, was built mostly for spiritual reasons.

Nafplio was once the country’s capital

The charming city of Nafplio was the capital of Greece between 1823 and 1834. This was Greece’s first capital city after the country gained independence from the Turkish. 

Greece has one of the last brown bear populations in Europe 

One of the lesser-known facts about Greece is that brown bears still roam in the Pindus Mountains and the wilderness of Northern Greece. It is estimated that around 450 brown bears live in Greece.

There are also wildlife sanctuaries set up to protect these majestic animals. For instance, the Arcturos Brown Bear Sanctuary near Kastoria

Greece is home to the world’s deepest gorge 

Vikas Gorge is the deepest canyon in the world. It is also one of Greece’s most popular hiking trails. The footpaths here lead through the scenic traditional stone villages of Zagorohoria. 

Athens Cemetery is supposed to be haunted by an angry ghost 

The First Cemetery of Athens is the principal cemetery of Athens. It sits on the outskirts of the leafy residential Mets district. 

Locals tell stories of the disgruntled ghost of an undertaker that wanders through the cemetery at night carrying a wreath of flowers. Legend has it that his colleagues would constantly remind him to lay wreaths.

He was annoyed with the instructions and being told what to do. So now, even after his passing, he begrudgingly carries out this task. 

The first Greek flag was created in Skiathos 

The very first version of the Greek flag was created at the Holy Monastery of Evangelistria in 1807. This spectacular monastery is located on the outskirts of Skiathos town and is a worthwhile day trip when you are on the island. 

The flag was very different from the Greek flag that exists today. It was simply a white cross across a light blue background. 

The Athenian Trilogy is the best example of Neoclassical architecture in Athens 

The Athenian trilogy is the nickname given to a set of three beautiful neoclassical buildings constructed in the 19th century by the Hansen brothers. Namely, these are the Athens University (1864), the Academy of Athens (1887), and the National Library (1903). 

The three buildings are widely regarded as being the best examples of neoclassical architecture in the country. Even today, they stand out as some of the most beautiful buildings in Athens. 

Greeks celebrate the August Midsummer Full Moon 

Every year, the midsummer August full moon in Greece sees museums and archeological sites across the country offer free admission for the day. Some also open at night so that visitors can enjoy exploring beneath the light of the moon. The Temple of Poseidon is one such example.

The old abandoned Athens Airport still stands 

Today, Eleftherios Venizelos is Athens’ only international airport. Over 21 million passengers pass through here every year, making it the 15th busiest airport in the Balkans.

However, before Eleftherios Venizelos, there was another Athens airport. The Hellenikon airport was built in the 1930s and eventually closed in 2001. 

Despite the airport’s closure, the space was never cleared or demolished. Today, you will still see the ¨arrivals¨ and ¨departures¨ signs as you approach the old airport.

Inside, the waiting area seating still remains, as do the old-fashioned flight notice boards. It is an eerie place and who knows if it has or will become, home to squatters. 

Facts About Ancient Greece 

It is no secret that Greece is steeped in history. Many people travel here for the Athenian museums and archeological sites alone. A handful of facts about Ancient Greece are provided below.

Greece was the birthplace of democracy 

Facts about Greece
Facts about Greece

Greece, and more specifically Athens, was the place where the world’s first democratic system was introduced. Early Greek democracy looked very different from what we consider as being “democracy” today. However, it was a step in the right direction.

In 507 BC, Cleisthenes introduced “demokratia”. This was a system whereby the public could vote and be involved in political decisions. 

The Ancient Greeks worshipped the Olympian Gods

There were twelve Olympian Gods that were worshipped by the Ancient Greeks. Zeus was the King of the Gods. He was also the ruler of thunder and the sky.

It is said that the Greek Gods would meet at the top of Mount Olympus. From up here, they would watch over mankind and discuss their fate. 

Olympic Athletes would compete naked 

Many sporting events were completed naked at the time that the Olympics were first introduced. The word “gymnasium” actually translates to mean “school for naked exercise”. 

Having a unibrow showed intelligence 

Beauty standards have definitely changed since the days of Ancient Greece. While today women will pluck and shape their eyebrows, the Ancient Greeks believed that a unibrow was a symbol of beauty and intelligence. Women that did not have unibrows would colour in the gap between their brows. 

The Spartans drank blood 

The Spartans would drink tankards of pig blood. It was believed that this could help them to keep their strength up before battles. 

The ruins of Ancient Sparta are very poorly preserved

Once upon a time, Sparta was a warrior society in ancient Greece. During the Peloponnesian War (431-404 B.C), the Spartans defeated their arch-rivals in Athens.

This was once one of the greatest civilisations in Ancient Greece. However today, the ancient city of Sparta is very poorly preserved.

The site is free to enter and worthwhile if you find yourself in the area. However, the only distinguishable ruins are a section of the old Acropolis and what remains of the old amphitheater.

The well-preserved town of Mystras was once the capital of Lakonia

Facts about Greece
Facts about Greece

The Byzantine town of Mystras was once the capital of the Lakonia region of the Peloponnese. This medieval castle town is incredibly well preserved and dates back to the 13th century.

Mystras was eventually abandoned when Sparta was founded. In its heyday, 40,000 people called Mystras home.

The Yo-Yo was invented by Ancient Greeks

The yo-yo is widely believed to be the second-oldest toy ever created. Its origins date back to Ancient Greece. There are depictions of this toy on Ancient Greek vases discovered in the 5th century. 

There is a dark story behind the Temple of Sounion

The Temple of Sounion in Southern Greece is a popular place to visit during a day trip from Athens. However, there is actually quite a dark story behind this place in Greece mythology.

It is said that King Aegeus of Athens jumped to his death here after he mistakenly thought his son Theseus had died. The King’s death led to the nearby waters being named “the Aegean sea”.

Olive trees were sacred in Ancient Greece 

If you lived in Ancient Greece and you destroyed an olive tree, you would receive the death penalty! There is a beautiful olive tree that stands next to the Erechtheion at the Acropolis today.

It is believed that this tree grows in the same place as the olive tree that the Goddess Athena gifted to the locals all those thousands of years ago. Olive trees grow in abundance across Greece. They are a gorgeous symbol of life in the Mediterranean.

Greek Philosophers frequented the Athens Agora 

The Ancient Agora is one of the most important historical sights in Athens today. Centuries ago, the likes of Socrates, Aristotle, and Plato would all frequent the Agora. 

Alexander the Great came from the city of Pella 

Alexander the Great was a Greek and he was born in Pella, Macedonia in 356 BC. He studied beneath Aristotle. He is remembered for conquering dozens of countries and creating an empire that extended as far as India.  

Greek Philosophers wrote in Ancient Greek

The Greek language has changed and developed a lot over the last few thousand years. The works of prominent Greek Philosophers were written in Ancient Greek.

Sophocles and Euripides also wrote their plays in Ancient Greek. Modern Greek is very different. 

Most words gave Greek or Latin roots 

Greeks will proudly tell you that you can give them a word and they will find the original Greek word from it. This is actually true. Most words that we use today have roots in the Ancient Greek or Latin languages.

The marathon was named after Marathon in Greece 

Long-distance marathon running is actually named after a man who lived in Ancient Greece. Pheidippides was a man who ran 150 miles to seek help from the Spartans. 

Pheidippides ran from Marathon near Athens to seek aid in a battle against the Persians and Xerxes. When the Greeks won the battle, he ran 25 miles from Marathon to Athens to share the good news. Thus, the name of the marathon was born! 

Facts About Greek Islands 

Embarking on a Greek island-hopping adventure is a definitive bucket-list activity if there ever was one. Some interesting facts about the Greek islands are discussed below.

Nobody is allowed to live on the island of Delos 

The island of Delos is actually the centre point which all other Cyclades islands circle around. It is considered sacred and nobody was permitted to be born or die on the island. 

According to mythology, Gods Artemis and Apollo were said to have been born here. Delos was a major religious centre and port up until the 1st millennium B.C. 
It was destroyed by the Syrian king of Pontus, Mithridates VI, in 88 BC. Then, it was repeatedly ransacked by pirates who came to pillage the island of its antiquities and artifacts.

Today, Delos is a UNESCO-protected archaeological site. It makes a very worthy day trip from nearby Santorini or Mykonos.

Only 13 Greek islands have international airports 

Only 13 Greek islands currently have international airports. So, if you are planning on island hopping, you need to be strategic about where you are flying into. 

There are plans to also make Paros airport an international airport in the future but the dates are TBC. There are 13 domestic Greek island airports.

Only a fraction of the Greek islands are inhabited

Facts about Greece: Stafylos beach
Facts about Greece: Stafylos beach

There are more than 6000 islands in total. Only 220 of these are inhabited. 

There are many Greek islands that are incredibly popular among tourists. For example, Zakynthos, Crete, Kos, Santorini, etc.

There are also many islands that remain relatively off the beaten path – Folegandros, Tinos, Skopelos island, etc. It is not difficult to find your own slice of seclusion and tranquility on one of Greece’s 6,000 islands. 

Some Greek islands have no cars

People live very traditional lives in some parts of Greece. Vehicles are prohibited on islands such as Hydra or Spetses.

Travelling to these places feels like journeying back in time. Residents of these islands get around on foot or by horse. 

You can visit Mamma Mia filming locations

Agios Ioannis Kastri: The "Mamma Mia" Church
Agios Ioannis Kastri: The “Mamma Mia” Church

The movie Mamma Mia inspired a new wave of travellers to add Greece to their bucket lists. The movie features the fictional island of “Kalokairi”.

However, the majority of the film was shot on the beaches of Skopelos. The iconic shot of Sophie and her three fathers sailing on a boat with the backdrop of two trees was filmed at Cape Amarandos, near Agnontas.

You can visit many of the Mamma Mia filming locations in Greece. Skopelos’ Kastani beach was the location for the scenes for “Does Your Mother Know” and “Lay All Your Love on Me”.

Agios Ioannis Kastri is a clifftop church where the final wedding scenes are set. Some scenes were also shot in the Pelion villages close to Volos.

People in Ikaria have really long life expectancies 

People living in certain parts of Greece have life expectancies that are well above the average. The island of Ikaria is designated as a “blue zone”. Many of the people that live in Ikaria live well above the age of 90. 

Little Venice in Mykonos was once a popular hangout spot for pirates. These individuals would drink and party in this region in-between quests and adventures. Little Venice today is an upscale district filled with wonderful eateries and cocktail bars. 

Santorini is the only caldera that is inhabited 

Facts about Greece
Facts about Greece

Beautiful Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece and the world. There are many interesting facts that you can read about Santorini.

The island’s volcano is active. This is the only volcanic caldera across the entire globe that is actually inhabited. 

Leonard Cohen lived on Hydra island

The Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen lived on Hydra island in the 1960s. He became such an integral part of the community on the island that there is actually a beach named after him.

Visitors to the island can stop by the house where Cohen lived. Additionally, you can step inside the bars and restaurants that he once frequented. 

The Minotaur was apparently locked up at Knossos

Knossos is a sprawling archaeological site that awaits close to Heraklion on the island of Crete. The sun-bleached ruins that stand here are all that remains of the Bronze Age Minoan city of Knossos. 

In Greek mythology, the Minotaur was a creature that was half-bull, half-man. It is said that he was trapped in a labyrinth so that he could not escape. Many sources point to this labyrinth as being located at Knossos. 

Final Thoughts

I hope that these Greece facts will come in useful and interesting as you plan your trip. You may also be interested in these Greece travel tips, fascinating facts about Athens, or this collection of inspiring quotes about Greece.

Safe travels! Geia sou! Melissa xo 


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Alice Cooper is a British Travel Writer and Blogger based in Athens, Greece. She writes for numerous high profile travel publications across the globe - including Forbes Travel Guide, Matador Network, The Times of Israel and The Huffington Post.

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